Tailwheel Aircraft Ground Loop During Gusty Landing

Incident Overview

A pilot of a tailwheel-equipped airplane was conducting a full stop landing in variable gusty wind conditions. The landing approach and touchdown on the main landing gear were executed successfully. However, as the pilot lowered the tailwheel to the runway surface, a gust of wind lifted the airplane's right wing.

Loss of Control

The sudden lift of the right wing caused the airplane to begin weather vaning to the right. The pilot attempted to realign the airplane with the runway centerline, but directional control was lost. The airplane's left wing subsequently struck the runway surface and was bent upward.

Conclusion

The event involved a loss of directional control during a gusty wind landing, leading to structural damage to the left wing. No further details are available.